AUSTIN, Texas (KEYE) — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continues its investigation into a plane crash that killed nine people in West Palm Beach, Florida.
On October 17 at approximately 10:37 a.m. ET, a Learjet 60 departed from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) bound for the Bahamas. The aircraft had two crew members and seven passengers onboard.
According to authorities, at 12:47 p.m., the crew reported light clear ice and moderate turbulence at an altitude of 35,000 feet. They requested to climb to 37,000 feet, which was approved. However, less than 30 seconds later, the aircraft transmitted a mayday call, stating, “We are in an overspeed condition, descending.”
NTSB member Tom Chapman noted that investigators are examining weather conditions as a possible factor in the crash. Furthermore, there is evidence suggesting aircraft breakup occurred before impact.
Matthew “Whiz” Buckley, a former U.S. Navy pilot, stated that Learjet 60s are not designed to handle ice buildup. He highlighted concerns that ice can alter wing aerodynamics, increasing stall speed. Buckley also pointed out that footage before impact shows the jet may have been missing its horizontal stabilizer.
The NTSB has not yet confirmed the cause of the crash, and the investigation remains ongoing.